# data[].attributes.body
In this book we learnt about Gabriel. He is unique just like Jonas. He also has pale eyes which sparked something in Jonas. Jonas figured out that Gabriel can receive memories just like him because he once accidentally transmitted a memory. This is why Gabriel is a really special part of the book as it lets us infer as to whether ornot Gabriel would be the next Receiver or not.

# data[].attributes.body
In this book we learnt about Jonas's father. He works at the nurturing center where he takes care of the newborn baby's and help assign them to their new families. He is also in charge of releasing a baby who isn't acting properly or growing right. He doesn't have much option whether he wants to or has to release the baby because those are the rules of his job.

# data[].attributes.body
In this book we learnt about Jonas's mother. She works at the department of justice and makes sure everyone is following the rules. She is very productive and likes everything to be absolutely perfect. She also holds more control out of his two parents as she appears more strict.

# data[].attributes.body
In this book we learnt that Lily is Jonas's younger sister. Lily is a pretty normal kid who does her own thing but still obeys the rules. She loves to talk about whatever is on her mind as she can talk for hours non-stop. However, she is an intelligent child and will probably receive a good assignment when she is older.

# data[].attributes.body
In this book we learned that Fiona is Jonas's friend. She is very polite and respectful which is why she was perfect for the job of 'Caretaker of the Old'. However, she is no longer as close with Jonas because he has to stay really quiet when neer people so he doesn't say anything about his training.

# data[].attributes.body
In this book we learnt that Asher is Jonas's best friend however, he isn't the brightest. But, he becomes the director of recreation which was really good for him. He was also by Jonas's side for most of the time which shows that he is a trustworthy friend to have.

# data[].attributes.body
In this book we learnt that Jonas is an intelligent, brave, strong person who has the ability to see beyond. Jonas also has very pale coloured eyes, has brown hair and wears a tunic. Throughout the novel, Jonas has taught us that it is okay to be different and that sometimes learning about your differences can make you a better overall person. He was also able to 'see beyond' which meant he could actually see colours unlike anyone else in the book (other than the Giver).

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter, Jonas started not taking his daily pills to keep the stirrings away. However, after receiving enough memories, Jonas decided to keep it a secret and quit taking them. Ever since, he has noticed a big change in his emotions towards his day-to-day life. I noticed as well the different emotions and change in mood Jonas began to experience. I wonder how he feels to feel different. This is because for me, I can’t imagine not being happy or sad. To have no emotion must make life seem boring and as if the days feel like they last a long time. We also saw when Jonas and his friends were playing together Jonas got really upset. This is because they were using the concept of ‘war’ to play and have fun. However, only Jonas has actually ever experienced war. So, it was extremely upsetting when he was witnessing the game. It must have been extremely hard for Jonas because he must have felt all alone at that moment.

# data[].attributes.body
permeated ---- spread throughout (something); pervade

horde ----- a large group of people

trudged ----- walk slowly and with heavy steps, typically because of exhaustion or harsh conditions

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter Jonas experienced something that many hadn't before. He didn't know what to do or how to feel when this happened. This is because he probably feels like talking to someone who understands war. However, nobody he turns to knows anything about it. So, in some points it leaves him to be lost with this memory and not knowing what to do with it. I can relate to Jonas because there’s times in everyone's lives where they feel like they can’t talk to anyone about something and you may feel all alone. Sometimes in scenarios like these, it can be harder to regulate your emotions. However, even harder for Jonas because he is just getting used to having emotions again. He has to learn fast so he doesn’t lash out at anyone again. But, emotions can be tough to deal with.

# data[].attributes.body
This image represents the holiday everyone got. For holidays in their world, everyone gets a day off. This is the time to relax and basically have a free day. However, they do not celebrate anything. Therefore, it is declared an unscheduled holiday. When we think of holidays, we think of something we celebrate. Whether it's christmas, halloween, thanksgiving, family day, valentines day, we always have a special tradition to follow and celebrate each time. This is because you can take a day off  whenever you’d like but you can’t just make it a holiday whenever you want.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Why did they have an ‘unscheduled holiday? ‘
2. Will Jonas start to be happy again soon?

# data[].attributes.body
This book was really well written. I really enjoyed it because it was definitely something I haven't read before. The fact that it was different made it really interesting. I was able to compare it to my life and it really opened me up to different possibilities of living. At some parts in the book it did seem as though something didn't add up for me. However, towards the end, things started to click. The one and only disappointing thing about this book was the fact that the ending didn't really conclude or show anything. In my opinion, there should at least be another book and Jonas didn't actually die. Perhaps, the next book would be about 'Elsewhere'. However, keeping everything else in mind, I would give this book a 4 star rating. I really enjoyed it but I am not sure if it would be for everyone. So, if I were to recommend this to someone, I would say ages 12+. This book requires a certain amount of patience and you always have to have an open mind as you know most of your questions throughout the book will be answered. Overall, this was a great book and I enjoyed reading it.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Because it was a day to relax and have a free day to do whatever. However, they weren't celebrating anything. Therefore, it was 'unscheduled'.
2. Yes, Jonas was happy when he received certain memories.

# data[].attributes.body
In these chapters, Jonas and the Giver started their plan. Jonas knew how risky his journey was going to  be. Somehow, he had to leave the community without being seen. So, Jonas left the ceremony. He was riding on his dad’s bike. I wonder if Jonas’s parents started to figure out that he was missing. However, yes, Jonas did do some risky things throughout this journey but, over all, he decided to bring Gabriel along with him. He didn't want Gabriel to be released so he took a chance and stole him. This is because Gabriel is special. He isn't like everyone else. He's just like Jonas, he can receive memories. So, together they rode off into the wilderness without only enough food to last them a few days. During their journey to Elsewhere, they were so close to getting found by the planes in the air who were looking for them. However, Jonas used his memories to help them not be so visible. Together, as they walked, it began to come very cold. As days went by, Jonas and the baby could barely feel their legs. But, Jonas did the only thing he knew he could do to try and keep them alive longer. He would transfer warm memories to Gabriel and keep some for himself so they could both feel warmth. However, it didn't last for long..and before they knew it, they couldn't walk any more and they both fell into the snow. I wonder why Jonas started to ‘dream’ because he started to think about his favourite memories and his very first memory. However, we can infer that they died and couldn’t make it. At least he could rest knowing he did something good for his community.

# data[].attributes.body
meticulously ---- in a way that shows great attention to detail; very thoroughly

stealthily ---- in a cautious and surreptitious manner, so as not to be seen or heard

customary ---- according to the customs or usual practices associated with a particular society, place, or set of circumstances

cluck ---- make a short, guttural sound. languid- slow and relaxed

foliage ---- plant leaves collectively

meager ---- something lacking in quantity or quality

lethargy ---- a lack of energy and enthusiasm

# data[].attributes.body
I can connect with Jonas in this chapter because he did everything to keep Gabriel safe because that was the only thing he cared about in that moment. He didn't even think about his own well being but mainly that he kept the baby safe for as long as possible. This really showed Jonas’s compassion and commitment toward Gabriel. This situation reminds me of a movie I once watched where two brothers were on this journey together and they didn't know if they would ever come home again. But, the older brother did everything in his power to keep his younger brother safe because that's what mattered most. Jonas took the responsibility for Gabriel when he decided to take him to Elsewhere. If Jonas were to be selfish throughout the journey, it would show that he is not responsible or caring. Also, Gabriel was probably relying on Jonas to keep him safe.

# data[].attributes.body
This image represents the music Jonas heard when he was dreaming after he died. He dreamed of sledding down a big snow hill into Elsewhere where everyone was singing with joy and there was a nice little village. They were his happy thoughts and made him feel warm inside. Even though Jonas was never able to experience Elsewhere, at least he can imagine it to the best of his abilities.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Does Jonas ever get found after he died?
2. Did they ever make it elsewhere?
3. Where were they walking for days?
4. Would Gabriel have been the next receiver if he lived?

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter, Jonas was extremely upset. After experiencing his father releasing a baby made him so sad. It's the fact that they aren’t allowed to have twins who look identical. This is strange because in our world, it's no problem. As you grow up, everyone goes through their own paths and develops their own personalities. Being an identical twin shouldn’t mean that one has to suffer. So, in this case I understood how Jonas was feeling in this chapter. Also, not knowing his father would ever do such a thing. In order to make a difference, Jonas and the giver decided to make a plan. Something that would make everyone experience Jonas’s memories without him being released. They decided that if Jonas went to Elsewhere, the memories would be released to everyone in the community and Jonas would be safe. However, I wonder how Jonas will travel on his own without the Giver by his side. This is because they made the decision that the Giver would stay in the community to help those who need it when they are experiencing the rough memory’s. I am wondering if Jonas even knows how to get elsewhere. Even though Jonas knows he is breaking all sorts of rules, he is willing to make a difference within their community. However, some people think Jonas fell in the river, while others, like his parents, assume he is on a long bike ride. Sooner or later they will figure out that Jonas is gone…but will it be too late?

# data[].attributes.body
solace ----- alleviation of grief or anxiety

glumly ---- in a sad, quiet and unhappy way

# data[].attributes.body
I can connect with Jonas in this chapter when he wants to make a change for the better. This Is because they have gone years and years with this same system whereby one person out of the community is permitted to suffer by taking in all the memories. However, I don’t know if they ever doubted their system until now. Now Jonas and the giver wanted to do something about it. Taking this step really proves the kind of character Jonas is. If I were him, I think I would do the same thing because if you think about it, is it really fair what they are doing to him? Do they even realise what he goes through? In my experience, things don’t always have to go perfectly in order. You can do what you think is best because sometimes, it can change the perspectives of those who doubted. Also, taking that step to make a difference shows leadership. It's something that many people are known for in our world. Some people are known for taking a step out of courage because they want to try something. The fact is, most of the time, whatever they try actually works and makes a difference. For example, if Rosa Parks never stood up for herself, would things have really changed? Rosa putting herself out there really made everyone question the fairness of everything and the rights that everyone had. Rosa changed things back then and without her, who knows what our world would be like now.

# data[].attributes.body
This image represents identical twins. We learned in this chapter that in Jonas’s community they aren’t allowed identical twins. This is because they could get mixed up because of their appearances. They sort the two by weighing them and seeing which one is heavier. The one that weighs more gets to live while the other is released. Jonas watched his father release the smaller twin and it basically broke. The fact that they don’t know where the baby’s go is scary. It's almost like a trash bin. It’s like they don’t care about the human but only about the one who weighs more.

# data[].attributes.body
1. What will happen when Jonas returns home?

2. What is Elsewhere and how does Jonas get there?

3. What happens if identical twins weigh the same when they are born?

# data[].attributes.body
1. Jonas never returned.
2. Jonas didn't make it to Elsewhere.
3. unknown answer.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter, Jonas experienced something different. He was in a room with a tree that seemed decorated and there were colourful paper boxes under the tree. Along with that, there were a lot of people who were in the room. I wonder what Jonas thought about the fact that there were more than four people in the house. There were older people known as ‘grandparents’ which was odd for Jonas because the elders never leave the House of the Old. This is probably when he realised that this memory was from the past. Jonas figured out what was flowing through the room. It was love. The holiday that they were all spending together and sharing laughter and smiles made Jonas realise that he had never done anything like this before. They never celebrate birthdays or anniversaries and holidays. The only thing that is celebrated is the ceremony in December and when someone is released. So, Jonas was wondering if anyone loved him. However, his parents said that it was a bad word and that they admire his achievements but don’t ‘love’ him. I wonder how Jonas was feeling after that because after seeing that memory, he probably wanted to join in on that.

# data[].attributes.body
anguish ---- severe mental or physical pain or suffering

ectatic ---- the distension or dilation of a duct, vessel, or hollow viscus

pervaded ---- spread through and be perceived in every part of

# data[].attributes.body
I can connect to Jonas when he didn’t want his parents to be gone from his life. He doesn’t want to ever see them again once he becomes independent. Even though they aren’t his biological parents it doesn't matter because they raised him and taught him everything. To lose them forever could be hard. In my life, we have a choice if we want to visit our parents every holiday, or every weekend. However, there is one point in your life when you do need to be independent and start your own life. But, my parents have taught me so much throughout my whole life and helped me. So, I understand exactly how Jonas must have been feeling in this chapter.  It's also the fact that Jonas was accepting the fact that he soon wouldn’t see his parents because he has too. He’s almost being forced to.

# data[].attributes.body
This image represents holidays and traditions. In our world, we have many traditions and holidays. Some people celebrate certain things while others celebrate their own things. Families tend to make their own traditions throughout their lives to add some fun into each year. For example, during christmas, my family and I go and find a tree on a tree farm, cut it down and bring it home. Once it's in our home we then decorate it and put gifts for everyone underneath the tree. Traditions are meant to bring your family together as you all enjoy something that's fun. Without any celebrations, it would probably make life less exciting because it can be something to look forward to.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Traditions are important because they impact our lives in such a positive way. The holiday season is a time full of traditions. At Thanksgiving we have special food we eat, we spend time with people and visit the places we know. Christmas is also full of customs with festivities, celebrations, decorations, treats and time with family. Learn to see the good in keeping traditions and appreciate the happiness they bring to our lives.
What are Traditions?
Traditions are rituals, stories, beliefs, customs and routines that we share and pass on. They can be cultural, familial or religious and are unique to your family or tribe. It is the rituals, both big and small, that tend to create lasting memories. They are often more important than the physical gifts that we give and receive.

Some traditions will evolve and change over time and that is normal. Families blend together, people move and life situations change. Customs adapt to our lives as much as we adapt to the customs around us
Benefits of Traditions
Traditions are important in our lives and provide many benefits. We intentionally create and continue traditions because they provide a sense of belonging and meaning to our lives. Family rituals nurture connection and give us comfort. The special customs and rituals we have give us something to look forward to and something to hope for. They help us anticipate what is to come.

"Family traditions counter alienation and confusion. They help us define who we are; they provide something steady, reliable and safe in a confusing world."-Susan Lieberman

Traditions also provide a constant for us in an ever-changing and fast-paced life. In that way, they ground us. One of the most important rituals a family can do is eat dinner together ( more on the benefits of family dinners here). Traditions remind us of who we are and where we belong. The memories attached to the rituals of our lives are strong and give us a feeling of connectedness to a time, place or person.
Why Traditions are Important
I urge you to make time for special traditions this holiday season. They often take time and maintenance and it is easy to decide the effort isn't worth it. However, the effort truly is worth it! The benefits and impact of creating and maintaining traditions will more than outweigh the work involved. The joy and connectedness you feel will make you realize it is all worthwhile.
Favorite Holiday Traditions
Going into the last few weeks before Christmas I am going to try and pause my busy-ness to make time for baking our favorite cookies, sitting down and watching our yearly Christmas movies, filling the advent calendars, singing along to Christmas carols and joyfully attending the yearly concert and play.

One of my favorite family traditions is decorating our Christmas tree. Each year we get the tree set up with lights and garland. Then, a few days later, we decorate the tree with all of the special ornaments we've collected over the years. Our kids are given a special ornament that represents something special about their year....a place they visited, a sport they played or an interest they have. As we sit together around the tree and take the ornaments out, one by one, we talk and laugh about the story or memory attached to it.

Our tree is covered in mismatched but meaningful decorations and it tells such a story. Someday, when the kids are grown and in homes of their own, I may change the tradition and have a designer looking tree in our living room. But for now, nothing is more beautiful to me than this expression of our family.

A new tradition we've started in the last couple of years is to volunteer at a Christmas store for those in need. We donate and wrap gifts, help people shop and provide a beautiful and meaningful Christmas experience for those who need it the most. We now look forward to this day of serving each year and find so much joy in being a part of something bigger than ourselves.
Challenge for this Week:
What are some new traditions you can start? Maybe a tradition of serving others and volunteering together as a family? Is there something from your childhood that you remember with fondness that you want to start doing now? It is never too late to start a new tradition.

Need inspiration for new traditions? Try something from this list of fun holiday traditions and there are over 400 ideas for traditions for every season and time of the year in this book, "The Joy of Family Traditions", by Jennifer Trainer Thompson".

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Traditions are important because they impact our lives in such a positive way. The holiday season is a time full of traditions. At Thanksgiving we have special food we eat, we spend time with people and visit the places we know. Christmas is also full of customs with festivities, celebrations, decorations, treats and time with family.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Why is the word ‘love’ a bad word?
2. When did it become a rule that it can’t be used?
3. Will it ever change?

# data[].attributes.body
1. Because they are not permitted to 'love' in the community and that is also why they need to take their pills. However, they are allowed to use other words that are similar.
2. answer unknown.
3. It did change for Jonas after he stopped taking the pill and realised during their journey that he loved Gabriel.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter, Jonas experienced probably the worst pain he will ever receive throughout all of his training. For the very first time, Jonas saw exactly what ‘warfare’ is. Jonas really wanted to find out what warfare was but now, I think he probably regrets it. He saw and felt everything. He saw all the men on the ground in pain and the animals running around scared for their lives. It must have been a total shock of the fact that his world actually looked alike to what he was looking at in the past. Jonas also felt extremely dehydrated and there was no water anywhere to be found. He had no energy whatsoever to even move his hand or keep his eyes open and he died on the bloody ground. It's that terrible feeling when you want to do something so badly but you are just too tired. I wonder why the Giver gave that memory to Jonas if he knew how bad it would hurt. I realise now that the giver does eventually have to give all the bad memories to Jonas but, couldn't he have waited till the end of his training to give him this memory. Nobody in the real world has the power to see the war whenever they want. People who fight, normally don’t remember their lives before war. However, Jonas had the chance to go most of his time without experiencing it.

# data[].attributes.body
crimson ---- of a rich deep red color inclining to purple

grotesquely ----- in a comically or repulsively ugly or distorted manner

# data[].attributes.body
I can connect to Jonas when he did anything he could to try and help the little boy. He knew it wouldn’t really do much but he had to try with the last source of energy he had. I can connect with Jonas with this because he put others before himself. This shows a true leader. In certain scenarios, it's good to be the bigger person and help someone out instead of yourself. This is because most people's instincts may be to save themselves under pressure. However, I know that throughout my life I have tried to help people who need it most first and then worry about myself. This shows an act of kindness and proves that we are supposed to help out each other in life. Also, it shows leadership and sets an example for anyone who isn't sure about this.

# data[].attributes.body
This image represents the metal container Jonas reached for when he was looking for water. Luckily, he found some water but there wasn’t quite enough to keep the boy alive. However, the fact that Jonas tried is all that matters because he couldn’t do anything else to save him.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Why was there a metal container beside Jonas?
2. Why does the Giver only seem to suffer portions of the time?

# data[].attributes.body
1. answer unknown.
2. Because slowly, he is getting weaker and weaker as he carries all the memories. Therefore, he needs to share them with Jonas.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter, Jonas went back to the memory of sledding. However, this time, he experienced pain. This is because not everything goes the way you want all the time. Jonas fell and hurt his leg badly. However, when he opened his eyes, he barely felt anything. I wonder why Jonas can't take any medication that`s related to his training. It's the type of thing that you don't ask about and just do it. Jonas continued to see different memories with colourful things, as the Giver did so as a reward at the end of each training session. Also, we realised a bit of the reason as to why it's so restricted when it comes to the amount of children you're allowed to have. They were thinking that if there were more children, they would need more food. But, this would cause starvation for those who couldn't receive enough food. We also found out the reason why the receivers are a thing. The point of their jobs is to take the excruciating pain away from everyone else and to sacrifice themselves for the better of the community. I realised now why Jonas was required to have all those special qualities. Jonas also found out that he can also give memories to others. This is because he accidentally touched Gabriel and gave him a memory. I wonder if Gabriel will grow up having this memory but not knowing where it's from.

# data[].attributes.body
assuage ---- make (an unpleasant feeling) less intense

haste ----- excessive speed or urgency of movement or action; hurry

dismay ----- consternation and distress, typically that caused by something unexpected

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter we saw that Jonas and the Giver are risking their lives to help others. They know the pain that comes with being the Receiver of Memory, but they will continue to do what they are doing to save their community. Jonas did have doubt in himself at the start. However, now he knows he can do it because he was chosen. This reminds me of people who`s jobs in the real world are for helping people. For example, firefighters, police officers, doctors. All of these are really important roles and it takes a lot of courage to be able to do them. They sacrifice their lives every single day not knowing if they`ll be okay afterwards. All theory cares about is helping those who need it and saving them. To take on a role like that, you have to have courage, wisdom, faith, knowledge, and the capacity to see beyond. In Jonas`s case, that means to see colour. However, in the real world, it means to not be selfish and not care about what happens to you through the outcome but what you're doing in the moment.

# data[].attributes.body
This image represents when Jonas experienced terrible pain going down a hill on a sled. There will be times where you get hurt from doing fun things. However, just because something happened one time doesn't mean you shouldn't still have fun. Jonas may be tempted to never go sledding again as he fears something bad could happen again. However, it's a part of life that everyone accidentally gets hurt.

# data[].attributes.body
1. How did Jonas give a memory to Gabriel?

2. How is Gabriel able to receive the memories..is he the next receiver?

3. Why could Jonas still feel some pain after the memory?

# data[].attributes.body
1. Gabriel must have the same capabilities as Jonas does in order to receive memories.
2. Gabriel will not be the next receiver because he didn't make it when he was on the journey with Jonas.
3. Because Jonas is actually physically in the memory somehow. So, afterwards, he sometimes still feels the pain.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter, Jonas started to get the hang of being the Receive of Memory. For example, he is starting to lie a bit, not tell his dreams to his family and ask as many questions as he likes. However, he finally discovered what ‘seeing beyond’ means. He finally got the answer he’s been looking for from the giver. The reason why he sometimes sees things weirdly like the apple, the audience and Fiona’s hair, is because he’s beginning to see the colour red. All of those things were red. Some were more prominent than others, but he could still make out some colour. I find it really interesting how only the Receivers of Memory can see colour. I realise now that they couldn’t see colour before because it was all black and white. I wonder why they took colour away because Jonas really likes it. I wonder how Jonas is going to react once he sees a memory of a rainbow.

# data[].attributes.body
admonition ---- an act or action of admonishing; authoritative counsel or warning

relinquished ---- voluntarily cease to keep or claim

wryly ----- n a way that expresses dry, especially mocking, humor

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter we unravelled the fact that most of the community can’t see colour and only see black and white. They probably don’t even know what colour is. This is the same as people who can’t see colour in real life. We call that being colour blind. Most of the people who are colorblind don’t understand what a colour even is. However there are strategies to help them in life because it can be handy to know what colours things are. For example, it's good to know the colours of clothes you buy and wear. To figure things like this out, they look at the shades of black, grey and white to determine certain things. So, the only difference between the fact that there are colour blind people in the book and in real life is that there are way less people who can see colour in the book that in real life.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter Jonas experienced going on a sled down a hill while snow fell on him. For the first time ever, he experienced something that he has never experienced before. However, he did it while he was laying down and closing his eyes. He also felt the nice warm sun and felt the pain of getting a sunburn for the first time. I’m wondering if he was actually doing those things or was it just his mind? How would it be possible to do such a thing anyway? All that I know is that Jonas loved the three memories that the former receiver gave because everytime he was experiencing a memory, he always had a big smile of delight on his face. Also, finally this is the chapter where we figured out who the giver is. When the former Receiver asked Jonas to call him the ‘giver’, I inferred that it’s because he’s giving the memories to Jonas. Now that I have figured that out, I can also infer why Jonas is named the Receiver of Memory. It’s perhaps because he receives all the memories from the giver and will continue to gain new memories throughout his lifetime.

# data[].attributes.body
torrent-a strong and fast ---- moving stream of water or other liquid

obsolete ----- no longer produced or used; out of date

# data[].attributes.body
onas loved the feeling of the snow when he was receiving the memory from the giver. He really took his time and used his five senses to figure out what it was. For me, I relate to Jonas because I’ve learnt to appreciate the little things in life and for the things I have. I realized in this chapter that I have had snow in my life since I can remember and that is not something most people enjoy. However, if you only ever think about the worst things in something, how will you ever see the good? Sometimes snow is hard to live with but overall, it’s something that I am lucky to have because some people have never seen it before in their lives.

# data[].attributes.body
This image represents the sunburn that Jonas got in the memory. He was yelling out loud from the pain of the sun on his skin and probably wanted it to stop. I can take this from experience because it has happened to me a few times in the summer where I’ve gotten a sunburn and agreeing with Jonas, it hurts.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Why is the giver willing to hurt himself to give memories to Jonas?
2. How much worse does the pain get with this assignment?

# data[].attributes.body
1. Because it is his job and the Giver has to train Jonas to be the next best Receiver no matter what it takes.
2. The pain Jonas experiences through his training only gets worse.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter, Jonas did indeed start his training. He is going to be trained by the former Receiver of Memory. However, to do so, he must transfer all his memories over to Jonas. I noticed that Jonas seems very tense and nervous about his assignment. This is because it is a big responsibility to take on. I found it super interesting how Jonas doesn't know what snow is. I can infer that this means their climate is very different from mine. However, knowing the descriptions of the book so far, I do picture it to be dark and gloomy where they live. I also find their vocabulary to be quite bland in the fact that they don’t know what a lot of simple things are. Some of those things were a big part of my childhood and the childhoods of many children. The fact that they missed out on those things just proves how much their childhoods were a big experiment for their future.

# data[].attributes.body
upholstered ---- provide (furniture) with a soft, padded covering

conspicuous ---- standing out so as to be clearly visible

hastily ----- with excessive speed or urgency; hurriedly

# data[].attributes.body
We can certainly tell how Jonas is feeling in this chapter because he is nervous for what’s to come. We see that he is having a lot of trouble trying to see himself being a good Receiver of Memory one day. However, Jonas doesn’t believe in himself. He doesn’t think he’s smart enough or good enough to fulfill the same things the former Receiver did. I don’t think this is good for him because how will he ever be a good Receiver if he doesn't think he has what it takes? This is because believing in yourself is the first step to success. In my experience, I have gone through a lot of things like Jonas. For example, when I need to do a shootout in hockey and everyone’s counting on me but I don’t believe in myself. It happens a lot when you second guess yourself but giving up right away because you think you're not good enough is way worse than not even trying in the first place. So, I believe that Jonas needs to believe in himself and have some faith so he can at least give it a try.

# data[].attributes.body
This image represents when the former Receiver of Memory tried to describe going sledding in deep snow going downhill. This was an important part because this is where we found out Jonas had no idea what that was. But, for me, I look forward to doing these all throughout the year because it is just so fun. There are a ton of different activities to do in the winter and that’s what living in Canada is all about!

# data[].attributes.body
1. What climate is it really like where Jonas lives?
2. How will Jonas feel once he gets to experience snow through memories?
3. Does Jonas finally believe in himself?

# data[].attributes.body
1. In their community, they don't experience snow, sun, rain. It's just gloomy all the time with no climate or weather.
2. Jonas was so happy and excited when he saw snow for the first time in a memory.
3. Yes, Jonas finally builds up the courage that he always had, just didn't know it yet.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter, Jonas talked to Asher about their assignments. However, something was off with Asher. He was acting differently around Jonas after the ceremony. I wonder how Asher is feeling about Jonas having the most important job in the community. I’m wondering if he is feeling jealous in any way towards the fact that his job doesn’t match the level of job his best friend has. Even though Asher thinks Jonas doesn’t know, it’s easy for him to see when his best friend is acting weirdly or when something is wrong. I wonder if Asher will tell Jonas sooner than later. This is because something could happen in their relationship if he doesn’t

# data[].attributes.body
integral ---- necessary to make a whole complete; essential or fundamental

conceivably ---- it is conceivable or imaginable that

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter Asher was a little jealous of Jonas. This is because he obviously knows that his assignment isn’t as good as Jonas’s. He’s probably a little confused as to why he didn’t get that assignment. Also, now that the fact that Jonas is kind of  ‘famous’ in a way, it may drive Jonas away from Asher a bit. This situation reminds me of a book I read before called Harry Potter. In this book the main character is the ‘chosen one’ and his best friend gets jealous of him easily throughout the book. This is because he is sort of famous. Almost everybody knows who he is but he doesn’t know them and gets asked to sign things. In situations like these, the characters can’t control what is happening. However, it can really affect those who care about you most.

# data[].attributes.body
This image represents the fact that Jonas isn’t allowed to take any medicine during his training. It’s one rule on the list he was given. This means he is going to need to go through the pain. They never explain why each rule says what it says, so I suppose it’s up to the person to figure it out themselves. However, he is still permitted to take his pills that he’s been taking every morning because they are not related to his training.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter, we figured out that Jonas is the Receiver of memory. I find it so interesting because it was unexpected and a big surprise at the same time. However, to those who knew Jonas, it felt right for him to be so unique because of his traits. He fulfilled the required traits that they were looking for. Therefore, it was almost a given that he took the place of the old Receiver of memory. I find that people will now view him from a different perspective. We also found out that the committee is always looking at you throughout your whole childhood because they are seeing which assignment will fit you best. In my opinion, I would like my privacy and to be alone sometimes but how could you if people were always looking over you.

# data[].attributes.body
anguish ---- severe mental or physical pain or suffering

midst ---- in the middle of something

# data[].attributes.body
I can relate to Jonas when he didn’t feel like being alone. He didn’t like the idea of being out of the crowd and not being able to be with his friends. This is because he may feel left out in a way once he is so concentrated on his assignment. I understand how he must feel because it’s something that I have experienced before in my life. Feeling like you are missing out on something isn’t fun, especially when you have to be doing something else instead of being with your friends. However Jonas is going to have to figure out some strategies to help him stay focused and concentrated on being his own person and being independent.

# data[].attributes.body
This image represents the packet Jonas was given of the rules he has to follow for his assignment. It’s important because Jonas needs to follow exactly what they say in order to keep his assignment. However, he finds it hard to adapt to the rules because of the fact he was raised to follow the rules, it’s going to be hard for him to bend them a bit. However, if they trusted Jonas enough to give him the most important job, I think he’ll be able to handle it with a bit more training.

# data[].attributes.body
This article reflects on how Jonas was feeling through this chapter. Instead of people making him feel left out, it's the fact of maturing and becoming more responsible that he needs to focus on prioritizing his time. As much as Jonas wants to still be a kid, he is forced to act alike to an adult from now on.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A new publication released today by UNECE, Approaches to Measuring Social Exclusion, examines the many and varied ways in which statistics can assess progress towards the policy goal of leaving no-one behind.

Social exclusion, or being left out of societal processes and structures, often goes hand-in-hand with being left out of the associated statistics.

One reason is that it isn't always exactly clear what 'social exclusion', or its converse, social inclusion, actually mean. They are broad concepts, with specific understandings that vary according to cultural norms and values and national contexts, as well as to the policy or other goals in question. Some aspects of social exclusion are measured alongside measurements for other policy goals, such as improving well-being, reducing poverty or building social cohesion. Other aspects, though, are poorly-defined and therefore remain unmeasured. While many countries collect data on some elements of social exclusion, there are very few dedicated surveys or statistical approaches, and no overarching conceptual framework, designed to measure the phenomenon as a whole.

The new publication examines this lack of conceptual clarity, explaining that while it is often used interchangeably with related terms such as poverty and inequality, social exclusion is more often intended to cover a broader idea. Based on collective rather than individual resources, and community relationships rather than only on what people have or lack, this idea helps to focus attention on the way that social exclusion arises and persists within societies. In fact, as the publication explains, some understandings of social exclusion define it not only as an outcome - a state of disadvantage - but also as a process by which individuals or groups become or remain systematically disadvantaged.

The report reviews the range of current practices across 31 countries participating in the Conference of European Statisticians, UNECE's highest statistical decision-making body. In the Netherlands, for example, a social exclusion index is produced by means of a special module in the Dutch Survey of Income and Living Conditions (EU-SILC). An index is constructed using 42 items across four dimensions of social exclusion: limited social participation; inadequate access to basic social rights and institutions; material deprivation; and lack of normative integration. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the government worked with the United Nations Development Programme to develop a measure of social inclusion based on data from a household survey. The work aimed to measure accomplishment of the European Commission's definition of the concept-that is, that people should be able to participate fully in economic, social and cultural life, to enjoy a standard of living and well-being that is considered normal in the society in which they live, and to participate in making the decisions that affect their lives.

Assessing the potential of these practices for delivering policy-relevant and comparable results, the publication distils emerging good practices and offers recommendations for moving this challenging area forward:

Social exclusion is not just economic. Statistical concepts are more well-developed and data collection more commonplace for economic variables such as income, poverty and material deprivation, but the development of indicators on the social dimensions is less advanced. A full picture of social exclusion requires information on a wide range of social topics such as employment, education and skills, health and disability, access to healthcare, public services, essential infrastructure, and social, political and civic engagement.

Those most at risk of social exclusion are also those most likely to be hidden within conventional data sources and statistical approaches. Inclusive data collection methods and special attention to hard-to-reach populations are essential to produce truly granular data that can shed light on marginalized groups. Analyses conducted through an intersectional lens-permitting, for example, studies of how gender, ethnicity and location interact- depend on such detailed data.

The potential for linking data across sources and combining survey and register data with statistical modelling is a potential avenue for producing richer insights that can counter the many limitations of current data sources.

Countries across the world are attempting to craft inclusive approaches to strengthening societies drastically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding how far their policy responses for social and economic recovery are truly inclusive will depend on precisely the kinds of statistics and frameworks described in the new UNECE publication.

At the European Union level, for example, a European Statistical Recovery Dashboard has been created to track economic and social developments during the recovery from the pandemic in the Member States and the EU as a whole. The dashboard focuses on economic variables and includes indicators of economic activity such as unemployment and the share of young people who are not in employment, education or training.

The publication was endorsed by the 69th plenary session of the Conference of European Statisticians in 2021. It is available in both English and Russian.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Left out? UNECE report guides measurement of social exclusion

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A new publication released today by UNECE, Approaches to Measuring Social Exclusion, examines the many and varied ways in which statistics can assess progress towards the policy goal of leaving no-one behind. Social exclusion, or being left out of societal processes and structures, often goes hand-in-hand with being left out of the associated statistics.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Does Jonas end up adapting well to his new job?
2. Will he run into any struggles throughout his journey of training?
3. What do they mean by that Jonas will be receiving the most pain ever when he is the Receiver of Memory?

# data[].attributes.body
1. Yes, Jonas becomes a really good Receiver.
2. Yes, Jonas runs into many struggles throughout his training. He felt pain and loneliness. However, he is so strong that he fought through it.
3. They meant that he would be receiving pain like no other person in the community other than the past receivers have ever felt in their lives.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Why can’t Jonas tell anyone about his training?
2. Why does he have to feel the pain from the training?
3. Did Jonas’s parents know all along about him becoming the Receiver of Memory?
4. What does it mean that Jonas can’t apply for release?

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter we found out that each newborn is assigned a number once they are born along with their names. However, parents don’t seem to use their numbers for their kids but rather their names. Jonas’s number is 19. This means that for the ceremony he sat on the 19th chair. I found it really interesting how Asher got the assignment of being the Assistant Director of Recreation which he was really happy about. Fiona got the assignment of a caretaker. I feel like this is a really good option for her because she is very calm and patient. Also, she has already done some community hours at the House of the Old. However, once it got to Jonas’s turn, somehow they skipped him. They didn’t give him an assignment. I find it really weird how they skipped him; however, I was predicting something like this to happen like a plot change of some sort. This is because in every book there is a problem/concern that the characters have to go through.

# data[].attributes.body
prestige ---- widespread respect and admiration felt for someone or something on the basis of a perception of their achievements or quality

chastisement ---- severe criticism; a rebuke or strong reprimand

acquisition ---- an asset or object bought or obtained

retroactive ----- taking effect from a date in the past

ruefully ---- in a way that expresses sorrow or regret

# data[].attributes.body
Jonas felt pretty upset once he found out that he didn’t receive any assignment at all. Actually, he didn’t know how to feel. He wasn’t sure whether or not he should feel disappointed, frustrated, or sad. A lot of questions must have been floating through his brain at that moment because she was hoping that they had made some kind of mistake. I can definitely understand how Jonas was feeling in this chapter because he probably wanted to feel happy for those who got exciting assignments, however also a bit sad for himself. If I were to put myself in his shoes, I feel like this situation isn’t something that happens rarely. For example, I don’t think that people rarely feel misunderstood or ignored and forgotten. Most people in their lives have gone through something similar to Jonas. It’s almost like when your heart drops when you are on a roller coaster. So, as we see, we experience the same emotions for different situations but that doesn’t always mean that we can’t understand how someone is feeling.

# data[].attributes.body
This image represents the number Jonas was assigned at birth. In this world, everyone is assigned a number as their parents then decide whether they’d like to call them by their names or their numbers. For example, if their child is ever getting on their nerves, the parents have the right to call their child by their number to remind them that they have that power. Also, the children may think that their parents don’t see them as their name in that situation and will start to behave differently.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Why did they skip Jonas when they were telling the 12’s their assignments?
2. Did everyone else notice that Jonas was skipped?
3. Is the number that you are assigned at birth equivalent to the day you were born on?

# data[].attributes.body
1. They skipped Jonas during the ceremony because they wanted to make a big announcement about him becoming the new Receiver of Memory.
2. Yes, everyone was aware that he was skipped.
3. unknown answer.

# data[].attributes.body
I can predict that that this book will be about a perfect world. One where nothing bad ever happens and you only hear tell of good things. However, for some people, like Jonas, it can seem to get a little boring from time to time. So, he wanted to see how it was really like to feel pain and how life would be if it weren't so perfect. Also, the book might make us reflect on how maybe having a perfect world all the time isn't so great after all.

# data[].attributes.body
I think that in the next chapter we will see what Jonas’s parents wanted to talk to him about and see why it is so important. Also, maybe we will see if the boy that Jonas's father was talking about who may be released, will come home with him for a little bit. This is because sadly the baby isn't growing as fast as he should be and doesn't sleep soundly.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter I wonder if they will finally bring home the new baby. Also, I wonder if Jonas will get any closer to finding out his job.

# data[].attributes.body
I think that potentially something else might happen where Jonas is the only one who notices. Whether it’s the apple again, or something totally different happens, maybe we will figure more things out about Jonas. Also, I feel like taking care of Gabriel for too long may cause some troubles within the family and they will have to figure something out.

# data[].attributes.body
I think that Jonas will be on the discovery as to what actually happens when someone is released. Also, maybe Jonas will get closer to figuring out what his assignment will be at the ceremony of 12’s.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter I think Jonas will finally go to the ceremony where each age group is celebrated and hopefully figure out what he will be when he’s older. Also, I think that he will continue to feel good and mature but still be able to be good friends with Fiona.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter I think that Jonas will figure out what his assignment will be but either he won’t like it or it will be a very unique assignment. This is because in every book there has to be some sort of plot change. In this part of the book there needs to be something exciting and eventful that happens. So, I think that this will be what will happen.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter I think Jonas will go on to question what happened at the ceremony and why it happened. I think he will talk with the people close in his life about the situation and maybe we will find out why it happened.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter I think that Jonas will continue to work on the rules he received for his assignment and have a discussion with his family about being the Receiver of Memory.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter I think Jonas will begin his training and we will see what it’s like. Also, hopefully Asher and Jonas will be able to resolve some things between them. Or, maybe their friendship will be over because there is too much tension?

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter I think we will see what Jonas thinks of snow and maybe he will continue to question the former Receiver because he is super curious. Also, I think something may go wrong during Jonas’s training.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter I think that something will happen on the second day of training. Also, I think that Jonas will see Asher in this chapter and will try and figure out how he’s doing with his assignment.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter I think Jonas will be absolutely amazed by the rainbow that’s in the memory. I wonder if he will question his parents about colour to see if they know anything or have heard about it. Also, I think he will begin to see more colour as the days pass by.

# data[].attributes.body
I think that Gabriel may start acting weirdly. Also, I think Jonas will find it hard to talk to his friends about his training because he isn't allowed to. So, he may end up feeling pretty left out.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter I think Jonas will experience another memory. However, this time it might be a good one compared to the previous one. Maybe something will distract him from what he saw during the previous session.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter I think that maybe somehow there may be a holiday. Jonas will try and make it happen or it will come to a great surprise to him. Maybe the giver has something to do with it.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter, I think Jonas will struggle with his emotions and may want to start taking the pill again and find it really difficult to cope with the scarring memory he witnessed.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter I think that somehow Jonas will make it to elsewhere and there will be some sort of happy ending. Jonas will probably struggle through it all but somehow something will happen and he will make it.

# data[].attributes.body
In this chapter, the ceremony of the age groups from 1 to 12 was celebrated. I find it really interesting how each age group receives something different and/or grants access to do something new. For example, the 9’s receive their very first bike, the 10’s get their hair cut so they can appear more mature. The girls get their braids cut off and the boys get a nice trim. Also, the families that only had one child so far were given their second child. I noticed how some people don’t like  the names that the nurturers give the baby’s but have to live with it no matter what. However, maybe taking the stress away from having to pick the baby’s name is a good thing for some people. If it were me, I would rather have the ability to choose the name of my baby because it is more meaningful than some random name. Just like every december, Jonas found himself bored as ever waiting for his turn to come. Jonas’s family also found themselves a bit disappointed once they had to sign a pledge stating that they wouldn’t get too attached to Gabriel as they had to give him to his new family unit at the next ceremony.